Rethinking Guardianship: Emma’s Story
Emma Budway describes her experience as a nonspeaking autistic woman under guardianship and the benefits of less restrictive alternatives.
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Government Affairs
Guardianship is a restrictive legal arrangement that often strips many rights from disabled people, including the right to make independent decisions. But it doesn’t have to be this way—supported decision-making is a less restrictive alternative arrangement that centers the individual and their wishes and preferences. Emma Budway details how we can reimagine guardianship, including for nonspeaking autistic people like her.
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Authors
Video producers

James Mertz
Video intern

Daniel Turner
Former Events Video Producer
Team

Disability Justice Initiative
We promote policies to ensure disabled people of color and those most marginalized by ableism and other forms of oppression can participate in the economy and democracy.